August 17, 2006

Preparing an Irish Wake

We usually like to keep things on the lighter side, but if you've noticed our posts have been sparse lately it's because we've lost someone very special to us. She was a beautiful lady with a huge heart, a great teacher, a loving mother who let our less-than-reputable Editor in Chief marry her youngest daughter.

She was also Irish American, and we want to remember her by letting you know about real Irish wakes and how to hold one.

The Irish have always loved a good party and the wake, like any other gathering in the community, became an occasion to share food and drink, have music and dancing and to enjoy some physical games. At various times in the past there were efforts by Church officials to discourage the raucous events but they were generally unsuccessful.

via AllAboutIrish

You can also read a full list of steps for how to hold an Irish wake from Roots Web, and remember - go ahead and mourn the death, but don't forget to celebrate the life.

In Memoriam - We love you Maureen, and don't worry...we'll take care of the ones you've left behind.

Recent Comments

Very unexpectedly my wife of 22 years was diagnosed with brain and spinal cord tumors. The lord took her in under two weeks resulting in her passing Monday December 15th at the age of 45. When we learned that there was not a cure, we cried, prayed then planned. Her request was for an Irish wake. We are not Irish by birth and have no family traditions to leverage so I was especially glad to have found this site so that her life may be honored in the manner that she has requested. Could you educate me on the practice of using a bell to signify quiet so that a song, story or remeberance can be shared? She also requested that after each ringing of the bell and sharing that glasses be raised. I want to honor her wishes as well as keep with tradition as best I can. - Bob

Posted by: Bob Hill at December 17, 2008 6:25 PM

That was our bad, Nancy. We completely should have put up a link to your site. Our only defense is that we were having trouble focusing on details like that while we were grieving. We've rectified the situation and added a link to the story...our apologies.

Posted by: Liquor Snob at November 1, 2006 9:03 AM

Hi there... I was surprised to find my company's logo -- The Irish Wake -- on your site (since you never contacted us for permission to use it!) As our name implies, we sell Irish-themed funeral items. It would be nice if you included some information about us and a link to our site where folks could buy some items for the wake you're helping them plan. Happy to help! Nancy Thorpe, Owner, The Irish Wake, www.TheIrishWake.com

Posted by: Nancy at October 31, 2006 5:48 PM